Rocky Charity Boxing event to raise funds, awareness of men’s health issues

They don’t come much tougher than Brandt Cogill. The accomplished fighter knows what it’s like to be at the top of his game but in recent times, he’s been spiralling. Now he’s determined to help others find a way out.

They don’t come much tougher than Brandt Cogill.

Fit and fearsome, he’s an accomplished mixed martial arts fighter who can dole out plenty of punishment and take his fair share as well.

He knows what it’s like to be at the top of his game but in the past couple of years, he’s been spiralling towards what he says is “not a good place”.

The 39-year-old father of two and owner of Fitzroy Martial Arts is suffering from depression.

“I didn’t want to face people or turn up to run the gym, my wife had to take over for me,” he said.

“I was having panic attacks and was reduced to tears and I didn’t know why.

“I was working, fighting, coaching, being a father and husband.

“I was feeling the pressure of being the male, the one who had to provide for everyone else, and I was not looking after myself.

Brandt Cogill’s battle with depression inspired his involvement in a charity boxing event in Rockhampton this weekend, which will raise funds for the Movember Foundation. Photo Allan Reinikka/The Morning Bulletin

“When you’re trying to live up to this ideal that you’re tough enough, you’re strong enough, it starts to take a toll on you.

“I lost a big fight in September 2019 and I think that was the tipping point.”

Brandt finally disclosed his silent battle and sought help after a friend said he was worried about him.

He now wants other people to do the same and is hoping this weekend’s Rocky Charity Boxing event in Rockhampton will open up the lines of communication around men’s mental health and other issues.

Brandt and Fitzroy Martial Arts has teamed up with Groom Barbershop owner Miguel Krzywdzinski to host A Movember to Remember at Flamingos nightclub from 7pm Saturday.

Both men will glove up for the event, which will feature 20 men’s and women’s bouts.

Proceeds will go to the Movember Foundation which raises awareness of and funds for men’s health issues, including depression.

Brandt said he had no hesitation when Miguel came to him with the idea. For him, it was personal.

“If I’ve gone through this process and learnt what I need to do to get myself back on track, I’m hoping that other people will as well,” he said.

“A lot of people I’ve spoken to and opened up to about this is are on antidepressants.

“People who seem so happy are often struggling so I’m hoping Saturday’s event will allow them to speak out as well.

“Everybody’s really keen because most of them know someone who has been affected by mental health issues or prostate or testicular cancer.

“This event will give people the chance to realise a dream of getting to box while also highlighting a very special cause.

“All the fighters are from Rockhampton and Yeppoon. About eight to 10 have fought before but the majority of them haven’t but are keen to jump in the ring and have a go.

“We’ve tried to match everyone up as best as possible. It’s difficult to get everything even but I think we’ve done a pretty good job.”

Each of the fighters had to raise a minimum of $200 to be involved, and Brandt said more than $26,000 had been raised so far.

Brandt Cogill is stepping into the ring on Saturday for the Rocky Charity Boxing event at Flamingos nightclub.

Brandt said he was looking forward to stepping into the ring.

“I’ve been training for this. I’ve got a pretty tough fight but it’s going to be good for me and for my confidence,” he said.

“I feel like I’m getting better. I’m actively seeking out ways to help myself.

“It’s really hard but I knew I had to honest about what I am going through.

“I feel like it wouldn’t be right if I didn’t share my experience and my story.

“In a way it makes it easier because there’s something good that can come out of it. It’s for a purpose, it’s for a reason.

“I’ve always been very passionate about self development and one thing I’ve done is read more and educated myself about mental health.

“I’ve spoken to friends and family and professionals as well, counsellors and psychiatrists.

“I’ve always driven myself really hard to win and compete, sometimes too hard, but I’m learning to be kinder to myself so I can enjoy the things I should be enjoying.”